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BORN
1943
DIED
2025
Richard Nielson Obituary
It is with tremendous sorrow that we announce the passing of Richard Harold Nielson. Born in St. Louis, Missouri on September 28, 1943, Rick passed away peacefully on July 4, 2025, surrounded by family, after a courageous battle with cancer.
He is survived by his wife, Leslie; daughters Theresa (Adam Safir), Whitney (Patrick Thompson), and Holly (William Bigelow); and his nine grandchildren: Elia, Ava, Izak, Atticus, Eleanor, Alissa, Easton, Brooks, and Averie.
Rick called Middletown, Maryland home for nearly 40 years, and his presence in the community will be deeply missed. He will be remembered for his quick wit, quiet strength, and the generous spirit he extended to all. He lived with unwavering conviction and an iron will. Rick was, without question, one of the most obstinate people you could ever meet. He stood firm in his beliefs, met life on his own terms, and never did anything halfway.
Fueled by a passion for adventure and endless curiosity, Rick traveled the world far and wide. He loved to explore new places, collect stories (and just about everything else), and forge connections with people wherever he went. He was a lifelong entrepreneur, a cowboy at heart, and a stranger to no one. His smile sparked conversations. He was the energy that filled the room. But most importantly, he always left everyone and everything just a little better than he found them.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the nonprofit of your choice. A celebration of Rick's life will be held on July 27th, 2025, from 5pm-8pm, at Orchid Cellar in Middletown, Maryland. Until then, plan an adventure of your own and imagine him riding across the open plains with the wild horses he so loved, at peace and forever free. Richard Nielson
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Nielson
5 Entries
Claudia Velasco
July 27, 2025
My Dear Friend Rick, Old Man:
What a privilege getting to know you. What a Blessing you are.
It have been more than 25 years when we travel together, for what it was for me the biggest challenge on my life, so young, thinking that I know it all, but i was clueless.
With a rocky start, the adventure with This gentle "Old Man" on my side, our boss had decided that Rick was the best guide to go with me to Asia and send us on a quest, what a beautiful experience.
With your invaluable experience, you open my eyes and my heart, to appreciate a complete new world and respect the cultures that I didn't no of at that time.
Thank you for your friendship, for watching overe me, not only as a friend, but like the father that I miss because at time was already gone.
Thank you for letting me shine, with your guidance and wisdom, you never wanted to get any credit for the success of our mission, thank you my friend.
You help me to grow, to believe in me, to be strong.
I treasure the short time I had the blessings of working together and after to meet a couple of times during your visits to Florida. And throw the years, a few telephone conversation, keeping in touch, and sharing out adventures.
Now you are one more time, away on the most beautiful adventures of all. May The Lord bless you and now shine in his presence.
Adam
July 16, 2025
Rick was an amazing father, grandfather, and father-in-law who will be dearly missed by his family and loved ones. We´ll forever cherish many memories of love and laughter.
Carolyn Johnson
July 16, 2025
So sorry for I always loved Rick. Very kind and generous.
Dan Rider
July 13, 2025
Richard was my great Aunt Edna's son. We were only 3 years apart and felt like 1st cousins. Spent time with him at Grandpa Nippers farm. Then as adults only saw him about every 10 years. But it was like we had not been that long when we got together, we always instantly connected. Was blessed to get to the Middle Ridge Farm in 1992, see him on our way to UpState NY in 2012, and a couple years ago he visited us in Arizona. Got to see the wild horses of the Salt River. He really enjoyed that. RIP Rick, not only a cousin but a great friend.
Andrea
July 13, 2025
He was truly one of the most selfless human beings I have ever known! A true friend in every sense of the word ... I was truly Blessed to have him as a friend ... Ride high Ric
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